Some clients prefer traditional photos to styled sessions, whether for professional head shots or to mark a particular moment in their lives. Every now and then I have a client who truly wants only one or two high-end photographs worthy of framing. They are not looking for a large variety of looks or choices, but still desire something more creative and personal than a stereotypical head shot session.

These short photo shoots feature the look the client wants while still showing different aspects of his or her personality and stage of life. Though simple, they allow for creativity in many ways, with the goal of highlighting any feature or mood important to the subject. Every client comes with a story to tell. Every one of them comes with a purpose, a “why” for having photographs created.

In this instance, Gabriel was finishing his senior year of high school. These images mark the end of his K-12 school career, during which time he was an outstanding student and accomplished athlete. He is a clean-cut, service-oriented teenager with many typical adolescent interests and aspirations. He possesses a quiet strength and a solid understanding of the direction his life is headed. His session was a fitting blend of straightforward optimism and emerging adulthood.